Balmoral

Balmoral is the largest of Fred. Olsen's ocean-going cruise ships, yet is still small enough to navigate size-restricted waterways such as the Kiel Canal, providing fantastic scenic cruising opportunities, and retains the warm, intimate and friendly atmosphere that the Fred. Olsen fleet is renowned for. Balmoral is named after the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, and the Scottish theme runs throughout the main dining venues – the Ballindalloch, Avon and Spey – where guests can enjoy tantalising menus prepared by our expert chefs.

Featuring 710 well-appointed rooms and suites and a selection of comfortable lounges, bars and inviting public areas which have been extensively refitted Show less and improved as part of Fred. Olsen's fleet-wide refurbishment programme, Balmoral provides guests with ample space in which to relax and share a memorable cruise experience with hundreds, not thousands, of fellow travellers. And, as our guests have come to expect, there is always an array of superb entertainment on offer throughout the day, from lectures and hobby classes to live cabaret and comedians, ensuring you can make the most of your time on board.

Accomodation Types

Recently refitted as part of an extensive, fleet-wide refurbishment programme, the stylish, comfortable rooms on board Balmoral have been designed with their guests and their needs in mind. They've thought of everything to ensure your time on board with them is as enjoyable, relaxing and carefree as possible. Even their lowest-priced Interior Rooms are equipped with climate control, an interactive smart TV, hairdryer, desk, phone, fridge (which can be stocked as a mini-bar) and tea and coffee making facilities as standard.

You could feel the sea breeze from your own private balcony; take in spectacular scenic views from the comfort of your Ocean View room; or perhaps enjoy a distinctly superior experience in a stylish suite. Whichever room you choose, you’re sure to find the perfect home-from-home on board Balmoral.

Room Facilities

Climate control

Interactive Smart TV

Desk

Phone

Mini-fridge

Hairdryer

Tea & Coffee making facilities

PS | Premier Suite

This suite is approximately 430 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 11.

This suite has a sitting room, balcony and a bedroom with large double bed and bathroom with bath and/or shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

*Rooms 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on the Lido Deck are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted window.

165 sq. ft.

Sleeps 2

C | Superior Ocean View

Located on Atlantic Deck 5. Around 165 square feet, with a picture window; and have a bathroom with a shower or bath.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

165 sq. ft.

Sleeps 2

D | Ocean View

These rooms are approximately 165 square feet in size, and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5 and Coral Deck 4.

They have a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

165 sq. ft.

Sleeps 2

E | Ocean View

This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Coral Deck 4.

It has a picture window and a bathroom with shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

165 sq. ft.

Sleeps 2

F | Ocean View

This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3.

It has 2 portholes, bathroom with a shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

165 sq. ft.

Sleeps 2

G | Superior Interior Room

Our Superior Interior Rooms are approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.

These rooms have a bathroom with bath and/or shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

Please note, rooms 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck have been adapted for use by disabled passengers.

160 sq. ft.

Sleeps 2

H, I | Interior Room

This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Main Deck 6, Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3

It has a bathroom with shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

160 sq. ft.

Sleeps 2

N | Single Interior Room

This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3

It has a bathroom with shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

160 sq. ft.

Sleeps 2

JB | Single Balcony Suite

This suite is approximately 200 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.

This suite has a bedroom with sitting area and a balcony. The bathroom has a bath and/or shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

Smoking is permitted on room balconies.

*Please note that some of the JB grades have 2 beds, but are sold as Single Balcony Suites.

200 sq. ft.

Sleeps 1

J | Single Superior Ocean View

This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8.

It has a picture window, a bathroom with bath and/or shower.

Facilities include air conditioning, a TV, mini fridge, telephone, safe and hairdryer.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

Please note rooms 8061 and 8072 have a small balcony.

160 sq. ft.

Sleeps 1

K | Single Ocean View

This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Coral Deck 4.

It has a picture window and a bathroom with a shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

Please note that some of the K grades have 2 beds, but are sold as Single Ocean View rooms.

165 sq. ft.

Sleeps 1

L | Single Ocean View

This room is approximately 140 square feet in size and can be found on Marina Deck 3.

It has a porthole and a bathroom with shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

140 sq. ft.

Sleeps 1

M | Single Superior Interior

This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.

It has a bath and/or shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

160 sq. ft.

Sleeps 1

N | Single Interior Room

These rooms are approximately 130 square feet in size and can be found on Main Deck 6 and Marina Deck 3.

They have a bathroom with shower.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

130 sq. ft.

Sleeps 1

Deck Plans

Recently refitted as part of an extensive, fleet-wide refurbishment programme, the stylish, comfortable rooms on board Balmoral have been designed with their guests and their needs in mind. They've thought of everything to ensure your time on board with them is as enjoyable, relaxing and carefree as possible. Even their lowest-priced Interior Rooms are equipped with climate control, an interactive smart TV, hairdryer, desk, phone, fridge (which can be stocked as a mini-bar) and tea and coffee making facilities as standard.

You could feel the sea breeze from your own private balcony; take in spectacular scenic views from the comfort of your Ocean View room; or perhaps enjoy a distinctly superior experience in a stylish suite. Whichever room you choose, you’re sure to find the perfect home-from-home on board Balmoral.

Room Facilities

Climate control

Interactive Smart TV

Desk

Phone

Mini-fridge

Hairdryer

Tea & Coffee making facilities

Marquee Deck 11

Observatory Lounge

Marquee Bar

Jacuzzis

Swimming Pool

Sun Deck

Golf Net

Highland Deck 10

Fitness Centre

Atlantis Spa

Avon Restaurant

Spey Restaurant

Premier Suites

Marquee Suites

Superior Suites

Balcony Junior Suites

Bridge Deck 9

Bridge

Laundry room

Superior Suites

Balcony Junior Suites

Superior Balcony rooms

Balcony rooms

Superior Interior rooms

Single Balcony Suites

Superior Inside Single rooms

Lido Deck 8

Gaming Tables

Lido Bar

Lido Lounge

The Grill

Balcony Junior Suites

Balcony rooms

Superior Ocean View rooms

Superior Interior rooms

Single Superior Ocean View rooms

Lounge Deck 7

Jacuzzis

Swimming Pool

Palms Cafe

The Poolside

Tea and Coffee Station

Morning Light Pub

The Bookmark Cafe

Card Room

Future Cruise Cruise Sales

Boutiques

Neptune Lounge

Neptune Bar

Main Deck 6

Ballindalloch Restaurant

Photo Gallery

Guest Services

Art Gallery

Port Shop

Superior Ocean View rooms

Superior Interior rooms

Single Interior rooms

Atlantic Deck 5

Superior Ocean View rooms

Ocean View rooms

Interior rooms

Coral Deck 4

Ocean View rooms

Interior rooms

Single Interior rooms

Marina Deck 3

Medical Centre

Arts and Crafts room

Laundry room

Ocean View rooms

Interior rooms

Single Ocean View rooms

Single Interior rooms

Dining

Whether you're visiting far-flung destinations on an epic Grand Voyage or taking a relaxing short trip to European cities, dining on board Balmoral is always a highlight of any cruise. With six fantastic dining venues to choose from, you'll always find there's a tempting selection of dishes, all perfectly prepared by our expert chefs.

Take a seat in the beautiful Ballindalloch, Spey and Avon restaurants to start the day with a breakfast cooked just the way you like it, or indulge with a mouthwatering five-course á la carte dinner every evening; and help yourself to the tempting buffet at the Palms Café. For an extra special treat, The Grill offers cooked-to-order steaks and seafood; while al fresco dining at its finest can be enjoyed at the newly installed The Poolside.

Dining included:

Breakfast | À la carte & buffet

Lunch | À la carte & buffet

Dinner | À la carte & buffet

Supper Club | Buffet

Extras:

The Grill | £20pp

The Poolside | £15pp

Premium Afternoon Tea | £8.95pp

The Bookmark Café | Coffees & chocolates

Ballindalloch Restaurant

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The stylish Ballindalloch is Balmoral’s main restaurant and offers a fantastic selection of expertly prepared delicious dishes to enjoy. Located towards the stern of the ship on Main Deck 6, the Ballindalloch features large picture windows providing stunning views and elegant décor which has been refreshed with new soft, comfortable furnishings and lighting.

Dining in the Ballindalloch is a lavish affair from beginning to end, from admiring the fine art on display in the grand corridor leading to the restaurant, to devouring every last morsel of your five-course a la carte meal. And the choice on offer every single night will ensure there is always something to suit your taste.

Spey & Avon Restaurants

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Newly refurbished with comfortable new seating and tasteful furnishings, the Spey and Avon restaurants - located port side and starboard toward Balmoral's stern on Highland Deck - have been carefully designed to make the most of large windows providing soothing natural light and ever-changing views.

Combining the same, five-course á la carte menus on offer at the main Ballindalloch restaurant with incredible scenery and the intimate feel of a smaller venue, dining at the Spey and Avon makes for a unique, memorable experience.

Palms Café

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Refreshed and improved with new soft furnishings, carpets and décor, the Palms Café will provide guests with an inviting space in which to enjoy a slightly less formal style of dining for years to come.

The Palms Café offers a relaxed buffet style of service, perfect for guests who prefer not to dine at a set time in the Ballindalloch, Spey and Avon restaurants, or those looking to indulge in a late night snack. While the style of the Palms Café is a lot more relaxed, you can still expect to find an abundance of indulgent dishes, expertly prepared to Fred. Olsen's renowned high standards.

The Grill

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Located portside aft on Lido Deck, featuring large picture windows, elegant décor, comfortable seating and premium dinner menus, Balmoral's brand new and exclusive The Grill restaurant offers a very special dining option on board.

At The Grill, guests can enjoy a romantic evening in the company of a loved one on an intimate table for two; or perhaps celebrate in style in a group of new-found friends. Whatever the occasion, enjoying the finest cooked-to-order steaks, seafood and much more while taking in tranquil ocean views is always an experience to remember.

The Poolside

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Making the most of the stylish interior space and inviting deck area aft of the Palms Café, Balmoral's newly installed The Poolside is an exclusive venue for very special indoor and al fresco dining.

Opt for an intimate dinner indoors, or perhaps dine outside in the evening sea breeze at The Poolside and you're in for an unforgettable experience, with a sublime, themed menu of expertly crafted dishes, all inspired by flavours from your cruising region, to enjoy.

Room Service

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All rooms and Suites have tea and coffee making facilities as standard, so you can enjoy a pick-me-up first thing, and a relaxing drink at the end of the day. For those times when you’d like something more while you’re in your home-from-home at sea you can also order room service up until 11pm every day.

Continental breakfast can be ordered in advance for delivery at your preferred time, while snacks are available from 10am onwards. Should you prefer not to head to the restaurants, short lunch and dinner menus are also available. Whatever the time of day, you’ll never be hungry on a Fred. Olsen cruise.

Afternoon Tea

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Each day complimentary afternoon tea is served, with sandwiches, scones and cakes, along with fresh tea and coffee, always a popular choice.

On some days guests can book a very select experience: Traditional Premium Afternoon Tea. Enjoy beautiful views from the stylish Observatory Lounge, with musical accompaniment from our on board pianist and the careful attention of white-gloved waiters.

Your choice from a selection of premium teas by Taylors of Harrogate is served in porcelain teapots, along with elegant finger sandwiches, pastries and warm scones with jam and clotted cream. Such civilised indulgence – and all for only £8.95 per person*.

Entertainment

Entertainment on board Balmoral is varied with large selection of lounges, each with their own atmosphere. From live comedians to card rooms, you're bound to find something to entertain yourself whilst on board, whether you're looking to have some fun, or just relax for a bit.

Neptune Lounge

Benefiting from refreshed carpets, curtains, décor and new, more comfortable seating, thanks to a thorough refurbishment in late 2017, the Neptune Lounge offers guests a chance to enjoy a feast of music, dance, comedy and costume in ample space, comfort and style.

As the main entertainment venue on board Balmoral, the Neptune Lounge hosts the live after dinner shows every evening. Take a seat alongside your friends, loved ones and fellow guests and experience all the 'glitz and glam' as our friendly waiters bring you drinks straight from the bar.

Lido Bar & Lounge

The Lido Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring ashore, or while away some time at sea. Take a seat at the bar and chat with the friendly staff and your fellow guests, or perhaps grab a table and appreciate the talent of the resident musicians with a glass of your favourite drink in hand. A newly installed, 75 inch widescreen TV - complete with immersive Bose surround sound system - shows various channels, keeping you up to date with news, sports and maybe a few of your favourite programmes, too.

Located on Lido Deck 8, the Lido Bar overlooks the aft pool on Lounge Deck 7 and offers superb, unspoilt views from the stern of the ship whether you’re at sea or docked alongside in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Marquee Bar

With it's large windows, spectacular glass roof and beautiful new décor and furnishings, fitted as part of Balmoral's extensive refurbishment in late 2017, the resplendent Marquee Bar provides guests with the perfect place to take a break from sunbathing on Marquee Deck.

Grab a quick bite to eat, or perhaps a refreshing glass of your favourite drink. Along with a great selection of beers, wines and expertly-created exotic cocktails, the Marquee Bar also offers you a chance to enjoy tempting tipples from our premium gin menu.

Morning Light Pub

Decorated to resemble a British pub or inn, the Morning Light Pub has a welcoming atmosphere and charming traditional style. Open throughout the day and the evening, it’s the ideal place to relax and socialise with friends both old and new.

You could enjoy a quick pint or a glass of wine at lunch before spending the afternoon ashore; stop by for a pre-dinner drink; or settle into a comfortable seat and relax long into the night while enjoying performances from live bands and comedians.

Observatory Lounge

Located on Marquee Deck at the very top of Balmoral, the Observatory Lounge boasts the most spectacular panoramic views and is a wonderful place to enjoy a pre-dinner drink. Sit by the bar, or perhaps take a seat in one of the new, comfortable chairs by the lounge's large windows and lose yourself in the stunning sights while listening to the twinkling sounds of a grand piano.

The Observatory Lounge is also the venue for our premium Traditional Afternoon Tea service, which offers guests a selection of delicious sandwiches, cakes, pastries and scones accompanied by premium teas and unforgettable views.

The Bookmark Café

Life on the ocean waves doesn’t mean having to sacrifice the regular ‘caffeine fix’ at your favourite coffee shop. The Bookmark Café serves a selection of delicious

Enjoy a quiet moment with a good book or share the experience with good conversation. You’re sure to be tempted by our heavenly fresh chocolates too. From pralines to Champagne truffles, these melt-in-the-mouth treats are too good to miss.

Enrichment

As well as a choice of comfortable accommodation, dining venues, bars and lounges, all of which have been refreshed and refurbished as part of the ship's thorough refit in late 2017, Balmoral features all the facilities and amenities you need for a comfortable, restful and stress-free stay on board, including heated pools and bubbling jacuzzis, a well-stocked library and even a self-service Laundry Room.

Arts and Crafts Room

The Arts & Crafts Room onboard your cruise ship is the perfect space to explore your ideas and designs with arts and crafts lecturers. So, for the creatives amongst you, there will be plenty to keep you entertained throughout your cruise holiday, and perhaps leave you with your own self-crafted souvenir to take home.

Art Gallery

Paintings from the Olsen family’s private art collection hang on the walls around your cruise ship. A number of pieces form a mini-gallery on the way into the Ballindalloch Restaurant.

Lectures

On selected cruises, a range of Vistas speakers who can’t wait to share their passion with you, and make your cruise really memorable to educate you on a range of topics. From Lars Tharp the admired historian, lecturer and a long-running expert on the Antiques Roadshow; food and wine expert Jilly Goolden and gardener Charlie Dimmock.

Library

Located in the Bookmark Café on Lounge Deck, Balmoral's well-appointed library provides a wide variety of books and publications, including some large print books, to delve into, accompanied by speciality coffees, teas and tempting chocolates served at this quiet, comfortable space.

As well as losing themselves in a good book as the world drifts by, guests can stop-by the Library for a traditional board games such as chess and drafts, or have a go at large, challenging jigsaw puzzles available too.

Gaming Tables

Try your hand at Blackjack or Roulette at Balmoral's Gaming Tables, located starboard aft on Lido Deck. Perhaps attend one of our daytime teaching sessions to improve your game and learn how to win big, then put your skills into practice in the evenings against our friendly croupiers, your new-found friends and fellow guests.

Please note: games of chance may not be charged back to your on board account.

Card Room

Featuring plenty of card tables and comfortable chairs, the Card Room on board Balmoral provides guests with a quiet, relaxing space to enjoy a competitive hand or two, or simply a bit of fun. Bridge is always a popular pursuit on board, so you're sure to find players up for a challenge. On some cruises, Bridge tuition is on offer to help you develop your skills.

If you prefer, asides from playing cards, there are jigsaws and board games for you to have a go at too.

Laundry Room

One of the treats of being on board your cruise ship is to leave behind the routine chores. And of course, there is a comprehensive on board laundry service which your stewardess will be pleased to arrange for you. Full details and prices for this service can be found in your Welcome Pack waiting in your room.

However, we do appreciate that occasionally there may be items you wish to deal with yourself, and the self-service Laundry Rooms, located on Bridge Deck and Marina Deck, are fully equipped with washing machines, tumble dryers and ironing facilities. A particularly useful facility for those guests enjoying a longer cruise holiday.

Boutique & Port Shop

The Balmoral Boutique features a wide range of luxury gifts for yourself and your loved ones. It offers a wide range of fragrance, cosmetics, bags, clothing & fashion accessories from designer brands such as Dior, Estee Lauder, Leighton Denny, Radley & Fiorelli, all at duty-free prices.

The Port Shop onboard stocks all the holiday essentials that you may have forgotten to pack from toiletries to sun hats or even a good book. You’ll also find a wide range of sweet treats and savoury snacks – perfect for whilst onboard or as gifts to take home.

Photo gallery

View those photos taken by the ships photographers, capturing those all important holiday memories from going ashore to formal night. These are displayed each day and can be viewed and purchased in the Photo Gallery.

Health & Fitness

Atlantis Spa and Salon

Refresh the mind and revive the body at the Balmoral's haven of relaxation. The soothing surroundings of the Atlantis Spa is where you can really treat yourself.

Situated on Highland Deck toward the bow of the ship, this luxurious spa offers a wide range of beauty and relaxation treatments, including massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and hairdressing, accompanied by stunning views provided by large picture windows. Perhaps try out a new style for your holiday; get set for a formal evening or special occasion; or simply unwind after a busy day of exploring ashore. The Atlantis Spa is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Fitness Centre

Whether you start your day with a relaxing stroll in the sea breeze, catch some sunshine on an afternoon meander, or end the night under the stars, there's nothing quite like enjoying an invigorating walk around the open promenade. Relaxing by the large, heated pools or in the bubbling jacuzzis on Balmoral's Lounge and Marquee decks is the perfect way to make the most of your lazy days at sea too.

To help guests work-off some energy and their holiday indulgences, or simply stay in shape as they explore the world, Balmoral's Fitness Centre is fully equipped with all the modern facilities and equipment you expect to find in your gym back home. We also offer a variety of fitness classes run by our fully qualified Fitness Instructors, including yoga, aerobics and Pilates, that cater to all levels of fitness and experience.

Pools & Jacuzzis

Keep fit by swimming a few lengths, or cool down after relaxing in the sunshine on deck in either of Balmoral’s large, heated saltwater pools. Located in the centre of Marquee Deck and at the stern of the ship on Lounge Deck, both pools have bubbling Jacuzzis close by, perfect for whiling away some time on sea days, or unwinding after an exciting exploration ashore.

By each pool you'll find plenty of comfortable sun loungers and ample open deck space too, providing somewhere to simply relax and enjoy the scenery and sea air as the friendly, attentive staff bring you your choice of refreshment throughout the day.

Kids & Teens

During the Easter, Summer and Christmas holidays only, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines offer organised and hosted children’s activities within the Little Skippers Club subject to a minimum number of children booked on the cruise. The Little Skippers Club supervises children from ages 5-11, with Children’s Hosts arranging meet and greets with parents and children when they embark.

The Little Skippers Club offers a wide range of activities including games, contests, scavenger hunts, sports and fitness instruction, arts and crafts, pizza making and cooking sessions, pool and swimming sessions, discos, karaoke and kids bingo.

Little Skippers Club

Children's club for ages 5 - 11

Useful Information

24 hour reception

In the heart of the ship, a member of staff is on hand 24 hours a day to deal with any query you may have.

Dress Code

When it comes to evenings onboard your cruise ship, dressing for dinner is traditional. Generally the style is smart casual, with gentlemen wearing a jacket/or shirt and tie and ladies smartly dressed. Chino type trousers or smart dark jeans are acceptable, but no trainers.During the day the restaurants require cruise guests to adhere to an appropriate dress code, i.e. no swimwear.

Dietary Requirements

Individual needs are as catered for as possible. So, vegetarian, low fat, dairy-free, lactose-free and gluten-free food are all on the menu.Please make any special requests when you make your cruise booking, and Fred. Olsen will do their best to source exact products, or provide certain foods, such as diabetic desserts. They may not be able to source specific brands given our location or the availability at local ports.

E-cigarette Policy

Electronic cigarettes, not emitting a vapour may be used in cabins or on cabin balconies but, are not permitted in any non-smoking public area. They can easily be mistaken for a real cigarette and result in potential confrontation and necessitate staff intervention.

Electronic cigarettes emitting any vapour, even if only a water vapour, may only be smoked in designated external smoking areas.

All Inclusive Package

Upgrade to the special All Inclusive Package and you can relax, knowing almost everything is covered. You'll enjoy selected beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks all day.

Disabled facilities

Fred. Olsen welcomes all guests relying on wheelchairs for mobility onboard cruise ships, but they do ask that you advise them of your mobility needs at the time of booking in order to meet their health & safety requirements.